PHILIPPINE EMBASSY HOSTS RECEPTION CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF PHILIPPINES-MALAYSIA DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS

Kuala Lumpur, 22 October 2024 – In celebration of the 60th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Malaysia, the Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur hosted a reception on 16 October 2024 at the St. Regis Kuala Lumpur. His Excellency Enrique A. Manalo, the Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, and His Excellency Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, graced the event.

Distinguished guests included Ministry of International Trade and Industry Deputy Minister YB Liew Ching Tong, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) Secretary General Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin, MFA Deputy Secretary General Dato’ Ahmad Rozian Abd. Ghani, officials of the Malaysian government, officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, heads of diplomatic missions and representatives of international organizations in Malaysia, and members of the Filipino community.

Foreign Minister Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan remarked “it is an honor to be with you today as we celebrate six decades of enduring friendship and collaboration between Malaysia and the Philippines. Over the years, our partnership has grown stronger, encompassing trade, agriculture, and people-to-people exchanges that continue to enrich both our nations. Together we have faced challenges and seized opportunities that have shaped the Southeast Asian region”.

Meanwhile, Secretary for Foreign Affairs H.E. Enrique Manalo stated that “Philippine-Malaysia ties are built on the firm foundation of shared values. As fellow ASEAN Member States, the Philippines and Malaysia have a considerable stake in strengthening the rules-based international order, especially in our global commons. We also share a keen interest in ensuring peace in the region and beyond.” He added that “the Philippines is committed to working with and supporting Malaysia as it on the reins of ASEAN next year, with enhancing ASEAN centrality as guiding principle. Guided by the wisdom borne of our six decades of relations, I look forward to the next 60 years and beyond of strong and steadfast relations.”

In her remarks, Ambassador H.E. Maria Angela A. Ponce highlighted the profound connection shared by Philippines and Malaysia over the past six decades, a bond rooted in shared history, culture, and a commitment to peace and prosperity. She expressed her hopes for both countries to continue strengthening collaboration across various sectors and promote inclusive growth and sustainable development for all.

The reception followed the conclusion of the 8th Philippines-Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting, which was held on 15-16 October 2024. END

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